Russell J. "RJ" Madsen

Russell J. “RJ” Madsen, 78, passed away Tuesday, January 2, 2024 in New Underwood, SD.

RJ was born on February 21, 1945 to Eugene and Catherine Madsen.  RJ graduated from New Underwood High School.  In 1962, he was united in marriage to Julia Mae “Judy” Madsen. 

Many children knew RJ as the guy who gave out candy when delivering feed for New Underwood Grain.  Their parents knew him from the time he and Judy ran RJ’s South Main Saloon in New Underwood.  RJ was very active in the St. John’s Catholic Church and Lion’s Club of New Underwood.

He is survived by two sons: Mike (Lisa) Madsen, Bismarck, ND, and Kevin Madsen, Cresco, IA;  five grandchildren: James (Lacey) Madsen, Chris (Natt) Madsen, Matthew Madsen, Amanda (John) Jackson, Ashley (Sam) Anderson; four great-grandchildren: Messina, Lydia, Edith, Ruby; four sisters: Roberta Donorovich, Colleen (Gary) Moden, Carolyn (Del) Cleveringa, Michael A. Dodson, and Jon (Irene) Madsen.

He was preceded in death by wife Judy, Parents Eugene and Catherine, and one brother, Ronald.

A visitation is planned for RJ at Kirk Funeral Home on Tuesday, January 9 from 5-7:00pm. His memorial service will take place at the New Underwood High School Gym on Wednesday, January 10^th at 2pm.